Dr. Joseph C. Harris

Synchronicity

As President of the Pierre Fauchard Academy, I have a privileged bird'seyeview of the affairs of the Academy, and I am delighted to witness the path toward synchronicity within our ranks. Every day brings news of progress from various segments of the Academy. The progress that is occurring is inspired by the Academy's Mission Statement, enacted by the autonomous Sections, and facilitated by the structure created by PFA governance. The recent formation of two new PFA Sections, the collaboration of the Academy Fellows with the Foundation grant projects, and the implementation of a long-term strategic plan by the Executive Board with the Central Office are but a few examples of what PFA can achieve by the harmonious utilization of the various wings that exist within the Academy.

The recent inauguration of the Latvian and Romanian Sections is a shining example of how the various divisions of the Academy function together to strengthen and expand the Academy. As Latvian and Romanian dentists began to flourish, the dream of becoming affiliated with the greatest dental honor society in the world transformed into a reality. By following the "chain of command" of regional Trustee to Executive Board to Central Office, two new dynamic Sections were created. The excitement and dedication shown by the Latvian and Romanian Sections is infectious, and the quality of Fellows that fill their rosters is superseded by none. The Eastern European nations are on our radar screen and should provide lifeblood to the Academy for years to come.

The many wonderful and glorious services provided to needy populations by the PFA Foundation continues to reap goodwill around the globe. A recent Foundation grant given to the Chilean Section of the Pierre Fauchard Academy enabled these Academy Fellows to provide much-needed dental care to the inhabitants of Easter Island. As the Academy's President, I was given the honor by the Chileans to give praise and gratitude to the Foundation for the funding they provided for this philanthropic mission. Although the Academy and Foundation are separate entities, we are "joined at the hip" and have a symbiotic relationship. Foundation President Kevin Roach and Executive Director Jennifer Teale are focused on their mission of global benevolence and, as expected, they have maintained an open and transparent relationship with the Academy.

As the global economy treads perilously in the realm of uncertainty, the Executive Board and Central Office are maintaining vigilance and are preparing sound economic contingency strategies that are reflective and responsive to any possible turn of events. Obviously, the most prudent path is evaluation of the status quo to seek areas where cost cutting can occur in hopes of building our reserves. Enhancing operational efficiency is also a sound step toward economic stability, and this efficiency can be accomplished through long-term budgetary planning that incorporates continuity between presidential terms. To maintain and continue the Academy's glories of the past and present, austerity measures may need to be taken; however, this prudent path is the only one that can be taken by a responsible leadership. To place the sizzle before the steak would be injudicious and in total disregard of the Fellowship. Current implementations will bear fruit in the future and ensure that we have a healthy and vibrant Academy for generations to come.

It is with great regret and sadness that I announce the retirement of the Academy's executive director, Mrs. Judith Kozal. After 55 years in the dental profession and 35 years of dedicated service to the Pierre Fauchard Academy, Mrs. Kozal, affectionately known by Fellows around the world as Mother Judith, has decided to step down. We, the Executive Board, have the task of seeking a replacement for an irreplaceable icon and have formulated a strategy to perform with due diligence in this matter. We are grateful that Mrs. Kozal has agreed to remain on board as a consultant to ensure a smooth transition. We are investigating all possible alternatives for filling the Academy's executive director position and will keep the Fellowship informed as events progress.

--Dr. Joseph C. Harris
President of the Pierre Fauchard Academy